HVMC Holy Week and Easter Plans

Jesus Enters Jerusalem

From Pastor Chuck:

We've nearly made it through Lent, and the story we've been anticipating is about to reach its peak. Here is how we plan to celebrate.

First, there is this Sunday, commonly known as "Palm Sunday," the Sunday before Easter and the beginning of Holy Week. During 11 a.m. worship, we will remember Jesus' Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem. Children often love this Sunday because they get to participate in the waving of the palm fronds as we sing our hosannas! (See Matthew 21:1-11.)

Later on Palm Sunday, from 3 to 5 p.m., we will host our Palm Sunday Palooza, a great opportunity for everyone to come together, with a particular emphasis on fun with children. There will be hot dogs, cake walks, games, crafts and resurrection eggs. You can even make an Easter hat in anticipation of where the story is headed.

During Holy Week, several of us plan to participate in the Scott County Ministerial Association midday services each day at First Presbyterian Church in Gate City.

Back at Holston View, we will hold an evening Good Friday Tenebrae service, where we immerse ourselves in increasing darkness as the story of Jesus' suffering, crucifixion and death unfolds. This service will be a little later than usual---8 o'clock---so we can experience it after sunset.

And then, of course, there is Easter Sunday April 5! At 7 a.m., we will host in our parking lot SCMA's ecumenical Sunrise Service, with Eric and Luanne McMurray leading our music.

After the sunrise service, breakfast will be served in the Darnell Ministry Center gym.

At 11 a.m., our choir will perform an Easter cantata as we celebrate the truth of Christ's resurrection.

May all these opportunities to engage with God bless you!